You’re right in the middle of redoing your bathroom floor—covered in plaster, debris all about—when you realize that you’re short one box of tiles. No worries. There’s no need to drop everything and head to the store. All you have to do is jump online, order what you need and wait for the FedEx SameDay Bot to show up at your door.

Really? Really!
 
That futuristic scenario may become reality very soon as FedEx is aiming to begin testing the technology with Lowe’s as early as this summer. According to FedEx, the technology is designed to provide safe, efficient and environmentally friendly delivery in localized areas. Robots are purportedly equipped with “pedestrian-safe technology” in order to navigate the path to their destination.
 
According to Lowe’s, the SameDay Bot represents an important evolution in customer service. "We're focused on serving our customers where, when and how they want to be served, and smooth, reliable, timely delivery is critical," said Don Frieson, Lowe's executive vice president of supply chain. "The convenience and capability the FedEx SameDay Bot is being designed to offer has the potential to simplify and speed distribution through same-day delivery from your neighborhood Lowe's."

The Bot is being developed to operate on sidewalks and along roadsides, remain stable and avoid obstacles while negotiating curbs, unpaved surfaces and tight turns. Gyroscopic technology helps keep cargo level and still. And, of course, the benefit of same-day delivery means that projects continue uninterrupted, whether you’re a DIYer at home, or a professional on a construction site.

Keep an eye out for robots rolling out in your neighborhood this summer as the program is tested.